A Technician Is Working the Night Shift and Receives a CSF

question 27

Multiple Choice

A technician is working the night shift and receives a CSF specimen on an infant. The technician makes a Gram stain of the spinal fluid, then reads the smear under the microscope. The report the technician sends to the physician reads as follows: "gram-negative bacillus, small and pleomorphic." What bacteria are being implied as the infecting agent?

• A) Escherichia coli
• B) Legionella pneumophila
• C) Staphylococcus aureus
• D) Haemophilus influenzae

---

Definitions:

Drugs

Substances, natural or combined, created to treat or prevent illness or disease. Examples include aspirin, Lipitor, and Prozac.

Adverse Effect

An unwanted, negative reaction or side effect resulting from medication or other intervention.

Toxic Effect

Adverse health effects caused by exposure to toxic substances, which can range from minor irritations to severe systemic damage.

Camazepam

A type of medication belonging to the benzodiazepine class, used primarily for its calming and muscle relaxant properties.